A common problem that we see among patients is fear or anxiety about attending their appointments. Along with anxiety, patients may also experience embarrassment over their feelings. However, you are not alone with this issue. Over one-third of adults in the US have some form of dental anxiety. Dr. Brad Gorsky works with anxious and fearful patients to find the best solution for providing a calm, stress-free dental care experience.
Dr. Gorsky offers conscious dental sedation as an option for anxious patients needing to care for their smile. He uses dental sedation options to minimize the pain and discomfort that patients may feel when they use our cosmetic and general dentistry services. We can help relax your body and mind so that you can easily make it through your dental appointments. Our practice offers a couple of dental sedation options to help fit your needs.
If you are more at ease during your exams, you will be more likely to continue to seek routine dental care. As a result, you will see an improvement in your oral health. This is because patients who avoid the dentist are more likely to develop complex dental issues that worsen over time.
Nitrous Oxide
Some people simply dread going to the dentist. Most of our patients don’t experience this fear because we go out of our way to make them feel relaxed and comfortable. But occasionally, we do see people who get really nervous as soon as they sit down in the dental chair. Other patients have a hard time sitting still or have a sensitive gag reflex, while others have trouble getting numb from local anesthetic injections.
We want to soothe and ease whatever troubles you have about your dental visits. We start by making you feel at home, listening carefully to your needs, and creating a beautiful, tranquil atmosphere.
But to keep you totally relaxed, we help patients relax using nitrous oxide. Nitrous oxide is also called laughing gas because of the slightly euphoric feeling it causes. We prefer nitrous oxide over other sedation methods because it takes effect instantly and can be reversed just as quickly, so you can drive or return to work after your appointment.
Oral Conscious Sedation
If nitrous oxide is not right for you, we can offer oral conscious sedation. Oral conscious sedation is a type of sedation where a patient takes a prescribed medication by mouth. Unlike nitrous oxide, you can take oral conscious sedation at home before you come to your appointment. This medication can induce a state of relaxation and calmness, which can help put your mind at ease.
With oral conscious sedation, you will remain conscious during your appointment. In fact, patients remain awake and can even respond when asked questions. However, they may feel drowsy and relaxed. Because of this, a patient will need someone to take them to and from their appointment. It is important not to drive while under the influence of this type of sedation.
Who Can Benefit From Sedation Dentistry?
Most commonly, dental sedation is known to benefit patients who have dental anxiety. It can occur on a spectrum. Some patients are only triggered by certain sounds or dental tools, while others can’t even come into the office at all. Sedation can help them get the care they need.
Patients who avoid the office due to anxiety often have more serious dental problems that need to be fixed. Putting off routine dental work leads to more serious conditions. Sedation allows these patients to undergo the more intensive procedures they require. It can also make it easier for them to come into the office for normal preventative care appointments, so they won’t need more dental work later on.
Sedation is ideal for anyone who needs a more extensive dental procedure. It’s difficult to sit still and stay comfortable in the dental chair for hours on end. When you’re more relaxed and not moving around, it’s easier for the dentist to get more done in fewer appointments, so you don’t have to spend as long in the chair.
Children and patients with involuntary movement disorders are also good candidates. If the patient is moving around during treatment, it makes it harder to perform dental work. Dental tools can be sharp, and there’s a risk of hitting the soft tissue in your mouth. Sedation relaxes these movements.
It also relaxes severe gag reflexes. When you have a strong gag reflex, you’re involuntarily fighting the dentist as he tries to work on your teeth. It’s uncomfortable for both the patient and the dentist. Getting to the back of the mouth is especially difficult. Sedation relaxes the throat muscles and makes things go more smoothly.
Sedation Dentistry FAQs
Sedation dentistry allows patients with dental anxiety and other conditions to get the necessary care. Is sedation dentistry right for you? Learn more below.
Is sedation dentistry safe?
Yes, sedation dentistry is generally safe when administered by a trained dental professional. We monitor your vital signs throughout the procedure and use precise dosages based on your health history. Before any sedation, we will review your medical background and discuss possible risks. Complications are rare, especially when safety protocols are followed.
Will I be unconscious during sedation dentistry?
That depends on the type of sedation. With nitrous oxide or oral sedation, you’ll be awake but relaxed. IV sedation may make you drowsy enough to sleep through the procedure, but you can usually be awakened easily. Only general anesthesia, less common in dental offices, results in complete unconsciousness.
Will I feel any pain during sedation?
Sedation dentistry is designed to reduce both anxiety and discomfort. Depending on the level of sedation, you may feel little to no pain during the procedure. Local anesthesia is often used alongside sedation to ensure the treatment area is numb. Most patients report feeling calm and unaware of the procedure while it’s happening.
Does insurance cover sedation dentistry?
It depends on your dental insurance plan. Some plans cover sedation for certain procedures or patients with medical conditions or disabilities. However, sedation used for routine anxiety or comfort may be considered elective and not covered. Check with your provider to help verify benefits.
What are the risks or side effects of sedation?
Common side effects include drowsiness, dry mouth, or mild nausea. Serious complications are rare but can include allergic reactions or breathing issues, particularly if sedation isn’t properly administered. We will review your health history and medications to reduce risks. Monitoring throughout the procedure adds an extra layer of safety.
How do I prepare for a sedation dentistry appointment?
Your dentist will give you pre-appointment instructions based on the sedation type. This may include fasting, avoiding certain medications, and arranging transportation. Wear comfortable clothes and bring a trusted adult with you if required. Being well-prepared helps ensure a smooth and safe experience.
With sedation dentistry, we can drastically improve your time at our office. Residents of Tuckahoe, Yonkers, New Rochelle, Eastchester, and adjacent Westchester County neighborhoods trust Crestwood Dental.